You are spoiled for choice, whether you want to motor out to sea, head up river or out to the centre of a lake, fish from shore or dive beneath a wave. There are endless places where you can catch a meal and great facilities to use when you return. The coast is dotted with boat ramps ,charter boats and tackle shops.

If it’s the big game fish you are chasing, charter operators from Bermagui, Merimbula and Eden can take you to where the wild things are; if it’s something smaller and more accessible, then favourites such as flathead, whiting, bream and snapper are among the many species that cruise the Sapphire Coast.

And it is not just about fish: this region is famous for its shellfish. Prawns, oysters,mussels. The eco-systems of the coastal lakes and wetlands protect the habitat and the pristine waters nurture them.

If you don’t mind hunting with a net and a torch, then catching your own prawns, cooking them under a summer night sky and washing them down with a cold beer or chilled wine is a memory that will last forever!

If you don’t know where to start on your fishing adventure, there are plenty of local experts to ask. Start with the nearest bait and tackle shop, a local at one of the Visitor Information Centres or wander into one of the coastal fishing clubs – most offer boat launching ramps and fish cleaning facilities and good advice.

Guides and charters

Fishpen Charters – Merimbula

Departures daily from Merimbula’s iconic Mitchie’s Jetty, get onboard the ultimate fishing adventure! We cater for the novice to the experienced fisher, specialising in reef and fun-filled family trips. Broadbill is a fully-surveyed stable vessel with experienced and friendly skippers. Your catch is cleaned and ready for the pan! During September, October and November the annual migration of the mighty humpback whales takes place just off the coast of Merimbula, an encounter with these truly awesome creatures is an experience that will not be easily forgotten on board Broadbill. Trips depart from Mitchies Jetty on Fishpen Road. Your enjoyment and safety is our priority, therefore, we DO NOT fish in rough weather.

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Bermagui Bait & Tackle

Drop in for and egg and bacon roll and a coffee before fishing the south coast’s richest fishing grounds.

Bermagui Bait & Tackle is a one stop shop for all your fishing needs, with everything from game fishing gear to the lightest estuary rods & lures, and incredible information network which covers the mountains and the coast. You can even see live weather & sea surface updates while you chat to the crew.

There’s a fleet of watercraft available for hire including 4.3m safe aluminium powered boats, single, fishing and tandem kayaks.

Bermagui Bait and Tackle is also an outlet for Wapengo Rocks, the Sapphire Coast’s famous organic Sydney Rock Oysters, pick up 30 unopened for $40.

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Head Hunter Charters – Bermagui

Head Hunter specialises in game fishing in the famous waters of Bermagui for Black Marlin, Big Blue Marlin, Stripe Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna and Albacore.

Head Hunter is a 41′ Steber re-powered with twin 425HP Yanmar motors and refitted with state of the art electronics. It has a top speed of 27 knots and cruises at 18 knots to ensure you get to the fishing grounds faster. Our qualified skippers and crew will host your offshore fishing experience, whether you’re a beginner or an expert, using the latest fish-finding techniques and fishing equipment for your enjoyment and safety. All equipment is to IGFA standards.

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Headland Charters – Merimbula

Going fishing with Headland Charters is a real adventure for young and old, if you have never fished before or you are a pro, we will take good care of you.

You’ll be fishing on the best boat in town with personal service guaranteed. Jadele II, in full maritime survey for 12 passengers and 2 crew, is available for share charters or exclusive hire. Reef, game, shark, king fishing and whale watching (in season). Also scenic coastal cruises.

On-board toilet. BYO food and drink. No fishing licence is required. All fishing gear and bait supplied and all fish are cleaned for you.

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Eden Outdoors and Marine

Eden Outdoor and Marine’s Michael Mashado with a 12.5kg Jew fish.

Owner Barry Ellis has over 30 years of fishing under his belt and his keen staff are in the same boat. This tackle shop is a hub of fishing knowledge, predictions, banter and well stocked with camping and dive gear too. Drop in and see the huge collection of trophies and memorabilia, including the Australian record for Blue Marlin caught on 24 kilo line. Gear repairs are done on site, overnight if needed. Open 7 days 8am to 5.30pm.